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A cataract patient in Nepal celebrates a successful surgery.

The Gift of Sight

Why your help is needed:

  • The number of blind is expected to double by the year 2020 — from 37 million in 2008 to 75 million by 2020 — according to the World Health Organization.
  • Imagine being blind. And poor. And there is no hope.
Learn what it's like to be blind in the developing world

Join us in our efforts to eradicate needless blindness by contributing to the Himalayan Cataract Project. Your support makes sight restoration possible.

$20 covers the cost of one sight-restoring cataract surgery.

Donate now, online or through the mail

National Geographic Explorer: In this clip from "Miracle Doctors," Drs. Ruit and Tabin discuss the transformative effects of cataract surgery, and their personal goals to eradicate unnecessary blindness. See more video clips.

HCP Recognized for Fiscal Responsibility

For five consecutive years, the Himalayan Cataract Project has been rated “4 stars” by Charity Navigator for its ability to manage and grow its finances.

According to Charity Navigator: “Only 5% of the charities we rate have received at least five consecutive 4-star evaluations, indicating that Himalayan Cataract Project consistently executes its mission in a fiscally responsible way, and outperforms most other charities in America.

This 'exceptional' designation from Charity Navigator differentiates Himalayan Cataract Project from its peers and demonstrates to the public it is worthy of their trust."

Immediate & Long-Term Impact

Each time a blind person regains eyesight it is not only his or her life that is restored but a family, a village, a community, a local economy. The positive ripple effects are enormous.

By contributing to the Himalayan Cataract Project, you are supporting its mission of eradicating preventable blindness through high-quality ophthalmic care, education and the establishment of a world-class eye care infrastructure.

Your donation could support a sight-restoring cataract surgery, the training of a surgical team, a fellowship for a young ophthalmologist to study abroad, outreach work in a rural area, the provision of a surgical microscope and consumables for a newly trained surgical team, or the construction of a new eye care facility.

Thank you so much for your contribution. Each one is significant and makes all the work of the Himalayan Cataract Project possible.

Change a Life for $20

For just $20, you can radically improve a human life through the gift of sight-restoring cataract surgery.

Donate now